Tea isn’t just about drinking…it’s an adventure!

Jasmine Silver Needle

When it’s cold and dreary outside, nothing is better in my humble opinion than the aroma of flowers. During the winter months, the trees are barren of their leaves, the sky is often gray, and the lush grass of summer is long gone. It is during these times that I miss the burst of color found in spring blooms and the fragrance of summer gardens. This is when I reach for and savor the opportunity to sip a cup of scented tea. Today’s choice – Jasmine Silver Needle – a sample I received from Adagio Teas.

Composition: White tea from China. Silver Needle is produced in the Fuding and Zhenhe districts of its Fujian province.

Flavor:Jasmine Silver Needle is delightful. Traditional of white tea, Silver Needle itself is quite delicate and mild. However, after scented with jasmine becomes somewhat full-bodied. It is naturally sweet and quite floral as one would expect. To be frank, the jasmine dominates the flavor. It is consistent from start to finish, yet never unpleasant. Instead the floral taste and aroma provide an amazing sensory experience. I found myself alternately inhaling the steam and sipping the tea until gone. Be advised if you are looking for the extremely delicate, clean taste of silver needle this is not where you will find it. Jasmine Silver Needle is in a category of its own.

I found the brew to have a hint of astringency (no bitterness, but a subtle dry feel in the mouth). Nevertheless, no sweetener was needed nor would I recommend it. I simply cannot imagine the impact sweetener would have on the floral characteristics of the tea.

Liquor: A rich yellow hue.

Brewing Time: According to the directions, the recommended steeping time is 7 minutes in 180 degree water. I steeped 7 minutes for the first infusion and 7 minutes 30 seconds for the second infusion. I intend to play around a bit more with the steeping times as I am interested in discovering how Jasmine Silver Needle tastes with shorter infusion times.